Method and apparatus for measuring the direction distribution properties of the radiant energy of a particle to the part of the same identification or the like.

摘要

In an apparatus in which particles are passed through an optical sensing zone to measure their radiant energy distribution such as, for example, light scattering characteristics for the purpose of identifying the particles, means and a method are provided for deviating the collected light in accordance with predetermined different paths to a plurality of different photodetecting devices. The deviation is effected independently of collection by optical radiant energy transmitting or reflecting means. The different photodetecting devices enable the measurement of energy directed along the particular path which is identified with that device. The paths are established by the deviating means rather than permitted to evolve by the scattering phenomena themselves whereby the photodetecting devices can be located in convenient arrangements and may be conventional in construction. Different forms of the invention combine optical reflection or refraction for collecting the scattered radiant energy with optical reflection or refraction for deviation to achieve different advantages and results.